The 3 Most Common Problems that Affect Your Siding in the Winter
Vinyl siding is preferred by homeowners for its durability, resistance to damage and fading, and pleasing appearance. Winter, however, can be a notoriously challenging time of year for homeowners and their homes alike. If you have vinyl siding, it’s important to be aware of the types of seasonal problems you might encounter and what actions you need to take if you spot them.
Keep reading to learn about the three problems you need to watch out for this winter:
1. The Appearance of Cracks or Holes in Your Siding
The good news is that, unlike its aluminum counterpart, vinyl siding won’t dent when it’s impacted. The bad news is that it can be susceptible to cracking, particularly during the winter when lower temperatures cause it to become more brittle than it would normally be during the summer.
Typical sources of problems include:
- Snow thrown up at fast speeds from snowblowers.
- Debris whipped around by fierce winter winds.
- Misfired snowballs packed with hidden ice.
If you find any cracks or holes, you need to repair them to prevent cold air and moisture from seeping into your home. Depending on the extent of the damage, a more comprehensive replacement might be required.
What are the pros and cons of repairing and installing siding in the winter? Read our blog to find out!
2. Loosened Siding Panels
Do you notice a portion of your siding hanging in an unusual way? It’s not uncommon during the winter for vinyl siding to become dislodged, especially if its suffered weather- or use-related abuse.
Keep an eye out for signs of trouble like:
- Any overhanging lips.
- Flapping noises brought on by wind, which suggest that air is penetrating behind a loose panel and causing the siding to shake and become jarred.
Sometimes you can simply secure the panel back into its original position (if the problem is minor), though if it’s been too badly damaged you’ll need to consider a replacement.
3. Water Penetration and Moisture Buildup underneath Siding
Water penetration is particularly likely to become a problem if you have ice buildups in your eavestroughs. This accumulation will cause melting snow and ice to backup into your home and underneath siding, where it can cause significant structural damage if it isn’t fixed early.
Do you know the three ways built-up ice in your eavestroughs can harm your home? Read our blog to find out!
Don’t Wait Until Spring – Deal with Problems Now
If you notice an issue with your vinyl siding during the winter, you need to address it quickly. This will help you nip problems in the bud before they get worse.
When it comes time to select a home contractor, make sure you choose one dedicated to high quality service and workmanship. They will be able to work with you to assess the damage and provide recommendations for any necessary replacements.
At Quality Exteriors, we are committed to providing vinyl siding that will withstand the elements. That means resisting chips, peeling, scratches, fading, and more. Contact us today to schedule your free in-home estimate!
Visit our siding gallery to see our quality workmanship.
Serving homeowners in St. Catharines, Burlington, Hamilton, Niagara, and Oakville.
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